The Buick GL8 is one of the few vehicles that can claim legendary status in China. First introduced to the county in 1999, the car has gone through four generations and is set on September 23 to see the two millionth example roll off the production line. For much of its time in China, the car has acted as the gold standard for business MPV transportation. However, in recent years, it has come under increasing competition from new energy vehicle competitors, and the failure to produce a PHEV or all-electric version until earlier this year led it to lose ground.

According to SAIC GM’s announcement about the forthcoming two millionth Buick GL8, the car will roll off the production line on September 23, and there may also be some form of announcement regarding it. The Buick GL8 sold 9,280 units in August and claims to be the sales champion in the medium and large MPV market.

Earlier this year, on April 24, Buick launched the Luzun PHEV version, which is based on the third-generation car rather than the new fourth-generation. Priced from 359,900-419,900 yuan (50,550 – 59,000 USD), it claims to be well received by the market. It is sized 5219, 1878, and 1807 mm (l/w/h) while having a wheelbase of 3088 mm. Despite its third-generation underpinnings, it looks similar to the ICE Buick Century (fourth-generation GL8) with split headlight clusters and through-type LED daytime running lights along with having a large grille.

It is available in six and seven-seat cabin layouts. The seats are shod with Nappa leather and are what are referred to as feather aviation seats, with a composite layer structure of silk cotton and breathable sponge.

For rear entertainment, there is an overhead screen, and the second row also comes equipped with a small table and smart island with functions such as a cooling box, cup holders, and wireless phone charging. The rear cabin also supports touchscreen remote control operation and Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity.

All versions of the GL8 Luzun have the same PHEV powertrain. This is centered around a 1.5 turbocharged engine with a maximum power of 132 kW and up to 250 Nm of torque. Mounted on the front axle is a 160 kW electric motor with a peak torque of 330 Nm. Combined power for the system is 292 kW and the combined torque is 580 Nm. It is only offered with a 24.4 kWh battery pack, which uses lithium iron phosphate batteries. All electric range is 108 km and the combined cruising range is 1370 km.

It’s believed that Buick’s announcement on September 23 will cover areas such as driving, safety, and intelligence.

Source: Fast Technology